The concluding mile-and-a-half handicap at Dundalk tonight produced a perfect microcosm of the title race as Colin Keane and Pat Smullen were engaged in a terrific prolonged duel.

It was Keane who just emerged victorious at the line aboard Thunder Crash and the win edged him in front again in the standings, 81 to 80.

7/2 favourite Thunder Crash travelled well to lead turning for home but was tackled by Bold Knight passing the two furlong pole.

There was nothing between the pair passing the furlong pole and Ger Lyons' charge just had his head down as they hit the line to gain a short-head success.

“He’s after turning inside out, loves that trip and is a very good mover so we knew Dundalk wasn’t going to inconvenience him,” said Shane Lyons.

“Colin was very brave on him as he’s still a baby and he just used hands and heels and felt if he picked the stick up he might just wander. He was cool and collected in such a tight finish.

“He’s in the Goffs Sales later in the year and if he is sold he’ll make a fine jumper because he loves that trip and is game with a touch of class.

“It’s like a game of tennis over and back between Colin and Pat. It’s great for everyone watching as it adds a bit of spice to an October evening. They are two great sporting people and it’s a case of moving on to the next day.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)